Mexico faces South Korea in World Cup 2026 without Álvaro Fidalgo

Mexico and South Korea clash in Group A of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 18 at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara. Both teams enter the match seeking victory after winning their opening fixtures. Coach Javier Aguirre made a tactical adjustment by benching midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo, who started in Mexico's previous match against South Africa. With no official report of injury or illness, the decision appears to be purely tactical in nature.

Luis Romo takes Fidalgo's place in Mexico's starting lineup, anchoring the midfield alongside Erik Lira and Brian Gutiérrez. Romo will have the opportunity to establish himself as a key player in the tournament's subsequent matches. The full Mexican lineup reads: Rangel in goal; Sánchez, Álvarez, Vásquez, and Gallardo in defense; Romo, Lira, and Gutiérrez in midfield; and Alvarado, Jiménez, and Quiñones in attack.

Both teams enter the match on the back of opening-round victories, raising the stakes for this second group stage encounter. Mexico's tactical modification reflects Aguirre's strategic flexibility as the tournament progresses.